Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera Gel
Product Description
Badger Aloe Vera Gel is a lightweight, fast-absorbing after-sun gel made with 96% certified-organic, Fair Trade aloe juice and just a handful of supporting ingredients. It cools, soothes and hydrates dry, sun-parched or irritated skin without leaving a sticky residue, making it a clean, multi-use staple for face, body, hair and minor burns.
β¨ Texture & Feel
96% Organic Aloe
Built around certified-organic, Fair Trade aloe barbadensis juice β close to breaking open a fresh leaf, with very little else added.
Instant Cooling Relief
Calms and rehydrates skin after sun, heat, shaving or minor burns, leaving it feeling refreshed rather than tight.
Short, Clean Formula
Just 7 ingredients with no added fragrance, oils, alcohols, parabens, sulfates or silicones β easy for sensitive skin to tolerate.
Eco-Conscious Brand
Certified B-Corp, packaged in a 50% recycled (PCR), BPA-free tube and produced with solar power in New Hampshire.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. The gentle aloe-based formula is generally considered fine during pregnancy and nursing.
No problematic fatty acids, esters or polysorbates. The glyceryl caprylate uses a short C8 chain that malassezia does not feed on.
Oil-free and water-light, so it is very unlikely to clog pores. A sensible choice for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin.
The small amount of citric acid used as a pH adjuster may, rarely, trigger flare-ups in very reactive or rosacea-prone skin. Patch test first.
Plays well with most actives. Apply after retinol, vitamin C, AHAs or BHAs as a soothing, hydrating buffer step.
A handful of users report stinging or redness. Although it is tested hypoallergenic, test on a small area before full use on the face.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π΅ Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Juice) ~96% Proven
The star and base of the formula. Organic, Fair Trade aloe juice that hydrates, soothes and cools the skin, making it a classic remedy for sunburn and general irritation.
- Hydration: Rich in polysaccharides that mimic the skin's own carbohydrates to help draw in and hold moisture.
- Soothing: Contains vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants (Vitamins A, C, E) that help calm irritation, itchiness and redness.
- Antioxidant: Plant antioxidants help neutralize free radicals from sun and environmental stress.
π§ͺ Gluconic Acid <1% Promising
A mild polyhydroxy acid (PHA) and chelating agent. Gentler than typical AHAs thanks to its larger molecular structure, so it offers light smoothing benefits with minimal irritation.
- Gentle exfoliation: PHAs dissolve dead-cell buildup more slowly and gently than AHAs, with less stinging.
- Antioxidant + chelation: Helps neutralize free radicals and binds stray metals to keep the formula stable.
π Citric Acid <1% Proven
An alpha hydroxy acid used here in a tiny amount mainly as a pH adjuster to keep the gel slightly acidic and skin-compatible, rather than as an active exfoliant.
- pH buffering: Keeps the formula in a skin-friendly acidic range for stability and tolerance.
- Mild AHA: Only meaningfully exfoliates at high concentrations (~20%), which is far above the trace level used here.
π§ Xanthan Gum Low Proven
A natural, non-toxic polysaccharide that thickens and stabilizes the gel so it spreads evenly instead of running off the skin. Also commonly used in foods.
- Texture: Gives the product its gel-like, easy-to-spread body.
- Gentle: Non-irritating and well tolerated by most skin types.
π‘οΈ Sodium Benzoate β€0.1% Proven
A widely used, FDA- and EU-approved preservative that protects the water-rich formula from mold and bacteria, helping keep it safe through its shelf life.
- Preservation: Inhibits microbial growth so the gel stays fresh after opening.
- Regulated: Permitted at up to 0.1% of the total product in the US.
π§ Glyceryl Caprylate ~0.5β1% Promising
A glycerin- and caprylic-acid-derived emollient and preservative booster. Its short C8 chain feels lightweight and silky rather than rich or waxy, and helps keep the formula non-sticky.
- Emollient: Adds a light, fast-absorbing softness without greasiness.
- Preservative booster: Disrupts microbial membranes, supporting the preservative system.
- FA safe: The C8 chain is outside the range malassezia yeast can metabolize.
7 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Juice), Xanthan Gum, Water, Gluconic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Citric Acid.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as a lightweight hydrating/soothing layer after serums and before a heavier moisturizer. After sun exposure, it can also be applied generously on its own, as often as needed, to cool and calm the skin.
π How to Use
Start with clean skin
Apply to clean, dry face or body. For after-sun use, cool the skin with a gentle rinse first if it feels hot.
Apply a thin layer
Smooth a small amount over the area and gently massage in until absorbed. A little goes a long way.
Reapply as needed
Use whenever skin feels dry, hot or irritated β after sun, shaving, heat or minor burns. Safe for daily use.
Seal & protect
Follow with a moisturizer if your skin is very dry, and always use sunscreen during the day.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want a clean, fragrance-free aloe for sunburn and after-sun care
- You have sensitive, acne-prone or reactive skin
- You prefer a short, minimal ingredient list
- You like multi-use products for face, body, hair and minor burns
- You value vegan, cruelty-free, reef-safe and eco-conscious brands
β Consider alternatives if:
- You want a rich, heavy moisturizer for very dry skin
- You need a large, economical tub of aloe for whole-body use
- You have rosacea easily aggravated by trace acids
- You dislike any tightening/film feel as the gel dries
- You're looking for a strong exfoliating acid treatment
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Oil-free, lightweight gel that hydrates and cools without adding grease or shine.
Refreshing hydration, but very dry skin will want a richer moisturizer layered on top.
Balances hydration across the face without overwhelming oilier zones.
Fragrance-free and minimal, though the trace citric acid means a patch test is wise.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe, making it a low-risk soothing layer.
π Results Timeline
Instant cooling & relief
On contact, the gel cools hot, sun-exposed or irritated skin and takes the edge off discomfort.
~90% noticedCalmer, more comfortable skin
With repeated use, redness and tightness from sun or dryness tend to settle and skin feels more comfortable.
~75% noticedBetter hydration & texture
Used regularly as a hydrating step, skin can look and feel more supple, smooth and refreshed.
~60% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- 96% organic, Fair Trade aloe with very clean, short ingredient list
- Cooling, soothing relief for sunburn and irritation
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing and typically non-sticky
- Fragrance-free and friendly to sensitive, acne-prone skin
- Vegan, cruelty-free, reef-safe, eco-conscious B-Corp
- Affordable and genuinely multi-use (face, body, hair)
β Criticized
- Small 4 oz tube; no larger size or pump option
- Texture can feel thinner/more fluid than a classic thick gel
- Can leave a slight tacky film if over-applied
- Rare reports of stinging/redness on very reactive skin
- Trace citric acid may not suit rosacea-prone users
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Much cheaper and far larger (12 oz). Similar cooling aloe feel, but the formula uses carbomer, triethanolamine and DMDM hydantoin, so it is less "clean" and not as minimal as Badger.
Very close aloe percentage, reef-friendly and alcohol/fragrance-free in a similar 4 oz format. A near like-for-like swap if Badger is unavailable.
Higher 99% organic aloe, made within 12 hours of harvest. Clean and soothing, though some find the preservative system slightly more sensitizing.
Higher aloe content with a thicker, more classic gel texture (uses carrageenan + potassium sorbate). Great soothing alternative, slightly different feel.
π Comparison with Competitors
Badger Aloe Vera Gel (Featured)
~$8β10Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera 100% Gel
~$5Lily of the Desert 99% Aloe Vera Gelly
~$10Aloderma Pure Aloe Vera Gel
~$9π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
Approximately 12 months after opening. Check the tube for the specific PAO or best-by date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigerating it adds an extra cooling kick for after-sun use.
Squeeze tube made from 50% recycled (PCR), BPA-free, recyclable plastic.
Yes β the 4 fl oz (118ml) tube is within carry-on liquid limits.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters β only aloe, water, a gentle PHA, a thickener, a mild emollient and approved preservatives. This makes it generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As always, if you have concerns, check with your doctor.
Yes. It has been assessed as fungal-acne safe. It contains no problematic fatty acids, esters or polysorbates, and its glyceryl caprylate uses a short C8 chain that the malassezia yeast cannot feed on.
Yes. Aloe gel is a great companion to actives. Apply it after your retinol, vitamin C or exfoliating acids as a soothing, hydrating buffer to help offset dryness or irritation. Just allow active treatments to absorb first.
It suits most skin types and is especially good for oily, combination and acne-prone skin thanks to its oil-free, lightweight feel. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well, but a patch test is recommended. Very dry skin may want a richer moisturizer on top.
Cooling and soothing relief is usually felt immediately on application. Calmer, more comfortable and better-hydrated skin builds over the following days to a couple of weeks with regular use.
Use it after cleansing, toning and serums, and before a heavier moisturizer, as a light hydrating layer. After sun exposure, you can also apply it generously on its own as often as needed to cool the skin.
It is very low risk β rated around 1/5. The formula is oil-free and water-light, so it is considered non-comedogenic and unlikely to clog pores, even on acne-prone skin.
Roughly 12 months after opening. Store it in a cool, dry place and check the tube for the exact PAO symbol or best-by date.
Verdict: Badger Aloe Vera Gel is a genuinely clean, no-frills aloe built around 96% organic, Fair Trade juice and just six supporting ingredients. It delivers fast, cooling, fragrance-free relief for sunburn, irritation and everyday dryness, and is safe for pregnancy, fungal acne and acne-prone skin. The main trade-offs are the small 4 oz tube and a texture that runs thinner than some classic thick gels, with rare reports of sensitivity from the trace citric acid. For sensitive, oily or combination skin seeking a minimalist, eco-conscious after-sun gel, it is an easy recommendation.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Xanthan Gum
Binding Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Skin Conditioning, Surfactant -Emulsifying Agent, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Binding, Gel Forming, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconic Acid
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Chelating Agent, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Benzoate
Masking, Fragrance, Preservative, Anticorrosive
|
|